The saxophone, invented by Adolphe Sax in the 1840s, quickly became a popular instrument in both classical and jazz music. However, it wasn’t just the invention of the saxophone itself that led to its rise—it was also the work of key manufacturers who refined and expanded upon Sax’s design. These early manufacturers helped shape the instrument we know today. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the earliest saxophone makers and the years they were in production.
1. Adolphe Sax & Cie (1846-1928)
- Founder: Adolphe Sax
- Years Active: 1846-1928
Adolphe Sax, a Belgian instrument maker, patented the saxophone in 1846. His company, Adolphe Sax & Cie, was the first to produce saxophones. Sax’s original vision for the instrument was to bridge the gap between woodwinds and brass instruments, offering the saxophone a place in orchestras and military bands.
His saxophones were unique in design, and although they did not immediately catch on in classical music, they found popularity in military bands due to their powerful projection and tonal range. Sax continued manufacturing his instruments until his death in 1894, and the company persisted under his family until 1928.
2. Henri Selmer Paris (1885-Present)
- Founder: Henri Selmer
- Years Active: 1885-present
Founded in 1885, Henri Selmer Paris is one of the most famous and enduring saxophone manufacturers. Henri Selmer initially produced clarinets before expanding to saxophones in the early 20th century. Selmer’s early saxophones quickly gained a reputation for their superior craftsmanship and sound quality.
By the 1920s, Selmer became one of the top manufacturers in the world. Their saxophones, particularly the Selmer Paris Model 22, were designed for classical and jazz players alike, offering refined tone and improved ergonomics. The brand’s most iconic saxophone, the Selmer Mark VI, was introduced in 1954 and remains one of the most sought-after saxophones by professionals to this day.
3. C.G. Conn (1888-Present)
- Founder: Charles Gerard Conn
- Years Active: 1888-present
C.G. Conn was one of the first American companies to manufacture saxophones. Founded by Charles Gerard Conn in 1875, the company initially focused on brass instruments before expanding into woodwinds, including saxophones, in 1888. Conn’s saxophones were robust and loud, which made them popular with military bands in the United States.
One of Conn’s most famous early saxophone models was the Conn New Wonder, which debuted in the 1920s and was embraced by jazz musicians. Conn’s innovations, such as improved keywork and tuning mechanisms, helped standardize saxophone production in the United States and influenced future designs.
4. Buescher Band Instrument Company (1894-1963)
- Founder: Ferdinand August “Gus” Buescher
- Years Active: 1894-1963
Ferdinand A. Buescher founded the Buescher Band Instrument Company in 1894, focusing on brass and woodwind instruments. Buescher was known for its high-quality saxophones, which became particularly popular in the 1920s and 1930s with the rise of jazz.
Buescher’s True Tone saxophones, introduced in the 1920s, were known for their consistent intonation and rich sound. These instruments were widely used by both jazz and classical musicians. Although Buescher was eventually acquired by Selmer in 1963, its influence on saxophone manufacturing was significant, particularly in the American market.
5. Martin Band Instrument Company (1905-1971)
- Founder: Henry Charles Martin
- Years Active: 1905-1971
The Martin Band Instrument Company was founded in 1905 by Henry Charles Martin, who had experience as a repairman and instrument maker before starting his own company. Martin saxophones gained popularity for their robust build quality and distinctive tonal character, which appealed to jazz and big band musicians.
One of Martin’s most popular models was the Martin Handcraft saxophone, introduced in the 1920s. Known for its warm and resonant sound, the Handcraft became a favorite of professional saxophonists, particularly in the jazz community. The company continued production until 1971, when it was acquired by the Wurlitzer Company.
6. King Musical Instruments (1893-1985)
- Founder: H.N. White
- Years Active: 1893-1985
King Musical Instruments, originally known as the H.N. White Company, was founded in 1893 by Henderson N. White. King was best known for producing brass instruments, but it also made a significant impact on the saxophone world. The company began producing saxophones in the early 20th century, and their instruments became widely used in both jazz and concert bands.
The King Super 20 saxophone, introduced in the 1940s, became legendary for its powerful, full sound and smooth action. The Super 20 was particularly favored by jazz legends like Charlie Parker and Cannonball Adderley. King Musical Instruments remained in production until 1985, when it was absorbed into the United Musical Instruments conglomerate.
7. Buffet Crampon (1825-Present)
- Founder: Denis Buffet-Auger
- Years Active: 1825-present
Although better known for its clarinets, Buffet Crampon began producing saxophones in the late 19th century. The French company’s early saxophones were known for their refined craftsmanship and excellent intonation, making them popular among classical musicians.
Buffet Crampon continued to produce saxophones well into the 20th century, but their focus remained primarily on other woodwind instruments. Nevertheless, their early saxophones were influential in shaping the French approach to saxophone production, emphasizing tonal clarity and precision.
Final Thoughts
The early manufacturers of saxophones laid the groundwork for the modern instrument and its role in both classical and jazz music. Companies like Adolphe Sax & Cie, Henri Selmer Paris, C.G. Conn, and Buescher introduced key innovations that refined the saxophone’s design, making it more playable, expressive, and durable.
Today, many of these early manufacturers continue to influence modern saxophone production, either through their continued operation or through their legacy in the designs and techniques of contemporary makers. Whether you’re a student or a professional, understanding the history of these manufacturers provides valuable insight into the development of the saxophone and its enduring appeal across genres.